Dog-Friendly Guide to Adelaide: Things to do in Adelaide With a Dog

Are you looking for the ultimate dog-friendly guide to Adelaide? Grab your leash because we're about to show you Adelaide's best spots for your furry pal! Trust us - we've sniffed out the absolute best-kept secrets, from dog-friendly beaches in Adelaide where pups own the surf, to those dog-friendly cafes in Adelaide where baristas know your dog's name before yours!

Plus, if you're searching for house sitting opportunities in Adelaide or need a dependable Adelaide pet sitter, read on to find out more!

Best dog parks in Adelaide

Got a pup with energy to burn? Adelaide’s the place for you. From fenced agility zones to wide-open spaces, these dog-friendly parks in Adelaide are perfect for running, sniffing, and making new furry friends. 

Pityarilla Dog Park (Pityarilla Activity Hub)

A dream spot for dogs who love to let loose. Fully fenced, with separate areas for big and small dogs, agility equipment for showing off, and shady seating for humans who need a break. Tails will be wagging non-stop.

Location: Unley Rd, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia

Victoria Park Dog Park

A local favorite with plenty of room to roam. Lush grass, shaded seating, and water stations make it a top pick for social pups. Expect wagging tails, friendly sniffs, and the occasional play-chase squad forming.

Location: Victoria Park, Wakefield Rd, Adelaide SA 5000

Hazelmere Reserve Dog Park

More of the slow-and-steady type? This dog-friendly park in Adelaide is all about chill vibes. With scenic walking trails and a spacious field, it’s a great place to unwind with your furry friend.
Location: Hazelmere Rd & Oaklands Road, Glengowrie SA 5044, Australia

Dog-friendly restaurants in Adelaide

Dining out is better when your pup can join the feast! Good thing Adelaide is full of dog-friendly restaurants that welcome four-legged guests with open arms, offering everything from shady outdoor seating to fresh water bowls.

The Flying Fig

If brunch and bagels sound like your perfect morning, this North Adelaide favorite is a must-visit. With a cozy outdoor space and a warm welcome for dogs, it’s a great spot to start the day.
Location: 1161 Jeffcott St, North Adelaide SA 5006, Australia

Peter Rabbit

A lush, garden-style café in the CBD, Peter Rabbit offers the perfect setting for a slow breakfast or brunch with your pup. Expect delicious food, great coffee, and plenty of shady spots for your furry friend to chill.
Location: 234-244 Hindley St, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia

Bloom Café

For those who love a waterfront setting, Bloom Café in Port Adelaide offers stunning views alongside fresh, healthy meals. Your pup can enjoy the relaxed outdoor scenery while you soak in the sun.
Location:38 Winwood St, Thebarton SA 5031

Fun dog-friendly activities in Adelaide

Looking to spice up your routine with some tail-wagging adventures? Adelaide offers a number of dog-friendly activities that go beyond the usual walk in the park. Here are some top picks to enjoy with your furry friend:

Paddleboarding at Henley Beach

If your dog is a natural water baby, why not try paddleboarding together? Rent a board and let your pup ride the waves while you paddle along the scenic coastline. Expect fun, splashes, and possibly a few hilarious wobbles!
Cost: $25/hr
Location: Henley Beach, Adelaide SA 5022

Day Trip to Hahndorf

Just a 30-minute drive from Adelaide, the German-influenced town of Hahndorf is renowned for its dog-friendly atmosphere. Stroll down the main street, explore boutique shops, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants with dog-friendly dining areas, such as The Haus Restaurant and Hahndorf Inn.

Cost: Varies by activity
Location: Hahndorf, Adelaide Hills SA

Visit to Himeji Garden

For a more tranquil experience, head to the Himeji Garden, a Japanese-style sanctuary gifted by Adelaide’s sister city, Himeji. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you as you explore the serene pond, Zen rock garden, and meticulously manicured landscapes.

Cost: Free
Location: Cnr South Terrace &, Glen Osmond Rd, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia

Best dog-friendly walking trails in Adelaide

Want to stretch your legs with a scenic walk? Adelaide’s dog-friendly walks offer fresh air, beautiful views, and plenty of exciting new smells for your pup to experience.

Anstey Hill Recreation Park

Anstey Hill Recreation Park offers a variety of trails winding through native bushland, historic ruins, and seasonal creeks. It's a haven for both you and your dog to explore. Remember to keep your dog on a leash to protect local wildlife.

Length: Various trails ranging from 1 km to 7 km

Location: Perseverance Rd, Tea Tree Gully SA 5091, Australia

Belair National Park

As South Australia's oldest national park, Belair offers numerous dog-friendly walking trails amidst beautiful natural bushland. It's an ideal spot to get active outdoors with your canine companion.

Length: Multiple trails of varying lengths

Location: Upper Sturt Rd, Belair SA 5052, Australia

Marino Conservation Park

For stunning coastal views, Marino Conservation Park features a designated walking trail and fire access tracks. It's a great spot for a scenic walk with your dog.

Length: Approximately 3 km

Location: Nimboya Rd, Marino SA 5049

Dog-friendly beaches in Adelaide

Looking for the perfect spot where your pup can run, dig, and splash freely? Adelaide offers several dog-friendly beaches that cater to both energetic and laid-back canines. Here are some top picks:

O'Sullivan Beach

A favorite among locals, O'Sullivan Beach, provides a generous off-leash area where dogs can enjoy the surf and sand. The designated off-leash zone begins at Selway Terrace and extends approximately one kilometer, offering ample space for your dog to explore. It's conveniently located just minutes from Adelaide's central business district, making it an ideal spot for a quick beach outing.

Location: O'Sullivan Beach, Marine Drive, O'Sullivan Beach SA

Glenelg Beach

A lively stretch of sand where dogs can enjoy off-leash fun in the waves. It’s also close to plenty of dog-friendly cafes for a post-beach treat.
Location: S Esplanade, Glenelg SA 5045, Australia

West Beach

Just a short drive from the city center, West Beach is a great choice for dog owners. The off-leash area stretches for a couple of kilometers, providing plenty of space for your pup to frolic. The beach is known for its beautiful scenery and is less crowded than other spots, making it ideal for dogs that prefer a bit more space.

Location: West Beach, Adelaide SA

The best dog-friendly cafes in Adelaide

Brunch just got better—because now your pup can come, too. Adelaide is packed with dog-friendly cafes where you can sip your flat white while your furry mate gets spoiled with pats, water bowls, and maybe even a sneaky treat. Here’s where to go when you want good food, great coffee, and wagging tails all around.

Whistle & Flute

A breezy, open-air cafe in Unley that’s as stylish as it is dog-friendly. Their menu is a winner (hello, chicken & waffles), and your pup gets a prime spot to lounge while you sip your latte.
Location: 136 Greenhill Rd, Unley SA 5061, Australia

Pixie & The Hawk

This popular Torrensville spot has a killer brunch menu and seriously good coffee. The best part? Your pup gets its VIP treatment, complete with water bowls and staff who genuinely love dogs.
Location: 144 Henley Beach Rd, Torrensville SA 5031, Australia

Fare & Square Cafe

Dog-friendly? Try dog-obsessed. This North Adelaide cafe serves up a furnu (fur menu) just for pups. Expect dishes like Beethoven Bolognese and Scooby Doo Stew—because why should humans have all the fun?
Location: 6/8 Wellington Square, North Adelaide SA 5006, Australia

Annual dog events in Adelaide

Love a good day out with your pup? Adelaide’s got some seriously fun dog-friendly events where you can mingle with fellow dog lovers, support great causes, and watch your furry pal have the time of their life. Mark these on your calendar!

Canine Cup Adelaide 2025

Forget horse racing—this is all about dogs racing… to their humans! The Canine Cup is Adelaide’s version of a race day, complete with recall races, a dog-friendly fashion parade, live entertainment, and plenty of feel-good vibes. Best part? It’s all for a good cause, supporting local animal rescues.

Cost: General Admission: $89 | VIP Ticket: $130
Date & Time: Monday, March 10, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Plant 3 Bowden, 3 Third St, Bowden SA 5007

Million Paws Walk

Biggest dog walk of the year? This is it. Grab your pup, round up some mates, and walk to raise funds for the RSPCA. Expect adorable dogs everywhere, plenty of dog-friendly vendors, and an unbeatable community vibe.

Cost: Registration fees vary (check RSPCA’s site for details)
Date & Time: May 2025 (exact date TBC)
Location: Bonython Park, Port Rd, Adelaide SA 5000

Dog-friendly accommodation in Adelaide

Exploring Adelaide with your four-legged friend? Finding the perfect place to stay is the key to an unforgettable adventure. From boutique B&Bs that welcome pups with homemade treats to luxury hotels where dogs receive VIP treatment, Adelaide's dog-friendly accommodation scene is booming with options that'll make both you and your furry friend feel right at home.

And speaking of homes, here's a travel tip that'll transform your Adelaide stays: TrustedHousesitters. This clever platform doesn't just help you find incredible dog-friendly accommodation in Adelaide - it connects you with a community of passionate pet lovers who can host your furry friend when you travel or even swap homes for the ultimate pet-friendly experience. It's like having a trusted network of dog-loving friends across the city.

Ready to discover more? Find your ideal match through TrustedHousesitters here.

The best dog-friendly bars in Adelaide

Drinks are better with your dog by your side. Lucky for us, Adelaide has some fantastic dog-friendly bars where you can sip, snack, and soak up the vibes—all without leaving your pup at home. Here’s where to go for good drinks, great company, and plenty of pats for your four-legged mate.

Sideways Liquor Co.

This neighborhood bar focuses on crafted spirits, beer, and wine, supporting local South Australian producers. The venue is dog-friendly, especially during their Winemaker Wednesdays.

Location: 99A Prospect Road, Prospect

The Bridgewater Inn

Set in the Adelaide Hills, The Bridgewater Inn boasts a two-level beer garden overlooking Cox Creek. They offer a dedicated dog menu, ensuring your canine companion enjoys the visit as much as you do.

Location: 387 Mount Barker Road, Bridgewater

Tips for pet parents in Adelaide

Owning a dog in Adelaide? Let’s keep things simple—here’s what you need to know to make life easy for both you and your pup.

Tip 1: Register your dog & keep your details updated

All dogs over three months old must be registered with Dogs and Cats Online (DACO). Microchipping is also required, and if your pup was born after July 1, 2018, desexing is the rule (unless you have an exemption). Why bother? Because if your dog ever pulls a Houdini, an up-to-date registration makes finding them way easier.

Tip 2: Know the leash rules

Adelaide is packed with dog-friendly parks, walking trails, and beaches, but leash laws still apply in most public spaces. Unless you’re in a designated off-leash area, keep your pup on a lead. Want to double-check where you can let them roam free? The City of Adelaide website has the latest info.

Tip 3: Keep your pup safe in the heat

Adelaide summers can be brutal, and dogs feel the heat more than we do. Stick to early morning or evening walks. Always carry fresh water, and remember to check the pavement temperature. The rule is simple: if it's too hot for your bare feet, it's too hot for their paws.

Tip 4: Heading away? Keep your pup happy at home with a trusted pet sitter

Travel is great, but leaving your dog behind? Not so much. The good news? When you need to travel, your dog's comfort doesn’t need to be compromised. Rather than settling for a kennel, consider booking a verified pet sitter who'll care for your dog in their familiar home environment. They'll maintain your pup's routine while providing dedicated attention and care. 

Find a verified pet sitter here.

A little planning means fewer headaches and more tail wags—so get out there and enjoy dog-friendly Adelaide!

Tips for pet sitters in Adelaide

Pet sitting in Adelaide? Get ready for beach strolls, café hangs, and plenty of tail wags while exploring one of Australia’s most dog-friendly cities. Here’s how to make the most of your stay:

Tip 1: Learn the local pet rules

Most dogs in Adelaide are used to on-leash walks unless you're in a designated off-leash area. Some beaches allow off-leash fun at certain times, so check the local council’s pet guidelines or ask the owner for their pup’s favorite spots.

Tip 2: Scope out dog-friendly hangouts

Adelaide is packed with dog-friendly venues where you can enjoy the city with a pup by your side. Try Glenelg Beach for a scenic walk, Peter Rabbit café for a laid-back brunch, or Malt Shovel Taphouse for an evening drink with your furry sidekick.

Tip 3: Be weather-wise

Adelaide summers can get hot, and not all pets handle the heat the same way. Stick to morning and evening walks, bring water for both you and your pup, and make sure they have a cool spot to relax during the day.

See Adelaide like a local—through pet-sitting

Pet sitting gives you a real home base while exploring Adelaide, plus the best company—an adorable pet! It’s the perfect way to discover dog-friendly cafes, beaches, and parks while experiencing the city in a way most travelers don’t.

Find a pet-sitting stay in Adelaide

Pack your bags, grab the leash, and get ready to experience dog-friendly Adelaide at its best! 

Useful resources

5 Dog-friendly destinations in Australia

A solo female traveler's guide to Australia